DISCOVER WINDISCH

FIND YOUR STUDY PROGRAM IN WINDISCH

WINDISCH AT A GLANCE

Located in the Swiss canton of Aargau, right between the Aare and Reuss rivers, lies the city of Windisch with a population of nearly 8,000 people. The city is mostly famous for being the site of the famous Roman military camp Vindonissa, which is probably from where the city’s name was derived. Nowadays, the historical importance of Windisch can be tracked in the artefacts kept in the Vindonissa Museum, as well as in the remains of the Vindonissa camp, which is considered a heritage site of national significance. This small university town attracts many young people every year with its charming atmosphere, hospitality and the renowned University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland. Located in the northern part of the country, Windisch has a rather temperate climate, which is slightly colder than the weather in southern Switzerland due to the disposition of the Alps. In winter, snow fall is likely to occur, with temperatures falling down below 0 °C, with January being the coldest month. In summer the weather is warm but might be accompanied by significant rainfall, with temperatures varying between 18 °C and 28 °C. Although located in northern Switzerland, Windisch has a good road and railway connection with bigger cities like Bade, Basel, Bern, and Zurich. The local public transport is serviced by city buses circulating around all parts of Windisch.

Academic Year

Spring Semester: February – June / Fall Semester: September – January (first days of February)

Official Language

German, French

Higher Education Institutions

Population

7668

Living Costs

1000 – 1500 EUR

STUDYING IN WINDISCH

The University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW) is one of the leading higher learning institutes in Switzerland, actively involved in teaching, research, continuing education and service provision. Apart from the headquarters of the university located in Windisch, there are nine other schools in the main locations in Basel, Muttenz and Olten. Currently, applicants can choose from 29 Bachelor and 17 Master degree programs in the fields of Business, Education and Engineering, Music, Architecture, Life Sciences, Psychology, and others. Over 12,000 students receive exceptional teaching and practical training preparing them for the employment market. What maintains the good reputation of this university is its focus on major social issues and challenges, introducing them to students in order to spark a conversation and point out what is wrong in the everyday life around them. For students moving from other countries or cities it is really important to find the right place to live in during their studies. Exchange students can forward a request to the International Office of the university, which will arrange a room for them. All other students can find accommodation such as individual rooms and studios or shared flats with friends or fellow students around the area of Brugg-Windisch. Several online platforms allow easy search for different housing options, with prices starting from around 360 CHF per month including utility bills. Detailed information and contact details can be found on the university’s website.

WINDISCH LIFESTYLE

Despite of its small size, it is almost impossible to get bored in Windisch. With the modern university campus being located right next to the Old Town, which is filled with bars, restaurants and a shopping center, diversity in leisure activities is guaranteed. Cultural offerings come in the form of fun festivals and fairs such as the Vindonissa Markt, theatrical plays, dance shows, concerts and many other art-related events taking place all year round in the city. Nightlife might be slightly different than the one in bigger cities, however. Windisch has quite a diverse range of bars and pubs where students can enjoy live musical performances, comedy shows and dance nights with music of all genres. The city and the surrounding region provides multiple opportunities for those who wish to stay active even during their lecture period. The Fitnesscenter Windisch offers modern equipment for targeted and individual trainings and karate lessons at attractive prices. When the weather is nice students can visit the outdoor swimming pool Heumatten with several pools, outdoor restaurant, table tennis, and a football field. Nature lovers can easily explore the nature around Windisch while hiking, cycling or walking through idyllic meadow landscapes. Thanks to the good railway connection, students who wish to explore Switzerland can also travel to bigger cities like Baden or Zurich within less than an hour and spend a day or two exploring the places.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES IN WINDISCH

Switzerland is considered to be one of the most expensive countries to live in in Europe. Keeping up with the high living standards can be a drain for some students, especially if they are coming to Switzerland for the first time. Finding a part-time job can tilt the scales in favor of the financial balance of those young adults, however there are several legal requirements and restrictions that need to be considered beforehand. For example, foreign students may work for maximum 15 hours per week during lecture periods and full-time during the semester break. Students coming from countries outside of the EU/EFTA can start working only after six months from the beginning of their studies. Career opportunities after graduation can be discussed with the Career Service office at the campus of FHNW. Everything related to students’ future employment can be discussed with the Career Services as they serve as a point of contact between students and companies. Apart from the professional and practice-oriented support that each student can receive free of charge, the office is also responsible for organizing career events and promoting internship and exchange programs. Thus students can improve their knowledge of the labor market and establish connections with representatives from medium-sized and large companies. Various job offers can be also found on universitaet.com in the “Career” section.